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Choosing the right vacuum cleaner can be daunting. The very best vacuum for someone living in an apartment won't offer the efficiency or cleaning performance needed for a family living in a 2,500-square-foot carpeted home. Even figuring out what type of vacuum will best meet your needs — whether it is a stick vacuum, a canister vacuum, an upright vacuum, or a robot vacuum — is not obvious and depends on your flooring mix and size of home.
We can help. After testing more than 140 vacuums of all types, we know the strengths and weaknesses of each type and which vacuums really deliver the performance you need. We put each product through challenging tests on different types of flooring. We can tell you which products can tackle pet hair, handle thick carpets, or simply make quick work of everyday messes. We'll also let you know how well they capture dust and pollen — a particular concern for those of us with asthma or allergy concerns.
In this review, we'll take you by the hand and share with you which types of vacuum cleaners stood out from the rest in our tests and fill you in on which type of flooring and living situations they are perfect for. Our goal is to help you choose a vacuum you will love for years to come, eliminate any surprises, and deliver the easiest way for you to keep your home clean and tidy.
As an example of what you'll find in this review, let's talk about which vacuum offers the greatest ease-of-use and convenience. On that metric, after all our extensive testing, we recommend the Shark Vertex Pro Lightweight. It is a cordless stick vacuum, which means it offers grab-and-go convenience. It is lightweight, with no cord to mess around with; you just pull it out of the closet, where it stands up by itself taking a small amount of space, and you are instantly vacuuming. In our tests, it delivered incredible performance, ease of use, and value. That said, if you want the best of the best in stick vacuums, at any price, we can tell you that the Dyson Gen5detect is the most impressive cordless stick vacuum we have ever laid our hands on. Read on to learn why.
For those wanting an efficient vacuum to clean a larger home, or if you just love powerful cleaning performance, look no further than Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional. It is a corded upright vacuum, which delivers more powerful cleaning than stick vacuums. It is the staff favorite at GearLab, and believe me, we have our pick from every vacuum on the market because they are all here in our testing lab. When you want incredible carpet cleaning performance and impressive suction power, the Shark Navigator is our go-to pick. Despite all that power, it sells for a price we love. It's been our long-term testing team favorite for deep cleaning and has been going strong for four years. We expect we'll still be using this durable workhorse a decade from now.
Need a vacuum for something more specific, like your car or garage? Check out our handheld vacuum review. Or, if you find yourself away from home for longer periods or lack the time for cleaning, a robot vacuum will do the dirty work for you while you are away from home. We test all of those options, too, and can help you pick just the right one for your needs and budget.
Editor's Note: On December 16, 2024, we include new additional selections from our cordless stick vacuum review. Popular brands like Dyson, Shark, and Levoit all showed impressive results in our tests.
The Shark Vertex Pro Lightweight strikes an impressive balance between effective cleaning and convenience, outshining its mid-range price tier in several key areas. In our cleaning test trials, it came within just 6% of the Dyson Gen5detect, the top performer (and most expensive), sucking up 90% of sand, rice, and Cheerios from low pile carpets. The Vertex is also tied for the highest debris collection in our high pile test, demonstrating its ability to handle thicker carpets and rugs. These results can be credited to the DuoClean system, which uniquely features two rollers in the vacuum head that work together to tackle dirt and debris efficiently. The DuoClean has always been a favorite of ours and continues to show great success. As one of our testers noted, “It's like watching a monster truck roll over obstacles - the vacuum forces through the largest messes we've made at GearLab without hesitation.”
While the Vertex cleaning performance elevated this mid-range vacuum to elite status, we appreciated its user-friendliness the most. The Shark's MultiFLEX hinge along the hose allows the vacuum to bend outward, making it easier for us to access under furniture without straining our backs. The handheld weight falls in the middle at 3.8 pounds, but it steers tight turns so smoothly that it makes quick work when maneuvering around furniture or corners.
Here's the Shark Vertex working its way through our slew of testing at the GearLab facility.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Cordless stick vacuums are gaining in popularity, and we couldn't be happier. Unless we need a serious deep clean around the house, we always grab a cordless stick vacuum to get the job done. The newfound freedom we get from ditching the cord has completely changed the way we use our vacuums. They're insanely lightweight and quick to work with, making them our favorite to use. The Vertex pushes the convenience a step further, making it a worthwhile investment into a cleaning companion that will help make this reluctant chore more bearable.
So what's the downside? The addition of a second roller introduces a design weakness to the Vertex. A key goal of a vacuum is to maximize suction power to effectively tackle dirt that settles deep into carpets. To assist the motor, designers devise a way to create a seal to surround the roller to prevent any outside air from causing interference. With the Vertex, the front of the head disrupts the seal because the soft roller is completely exposed with no substantial overhang to surround it. Due to this, we saw a reduction in suction power, measuring only 323 pascals, significantly lower than the average of the group at 834 pascals. This is equivalent to a light breeze rather than a severe storm in terms of air movement. We're looking for the latter to suck debris from above and into the dustbin physically. This means that you may need to take your time for deep cleaning days and make multiple passes to get what's beneath long pile carpets.
Another benefit to the MultiFLEX hinge is a simple storage option for the Vertex. We found this helpful to store in closets that may not have availability for a wall mount that most competitors rely on.
If you're seeking the top-performing cordless vacuum cleaner available today, the Dyson Gen5detect stands out as the best option. This vacuum consistently stood at the top of our cordless testing, continually coming in first or tied for first in most of our tests. Building on the success of Dyson's V-Series, including the Dyson V15, the Gen5 delivers even greater power. It achieved a suction reading that bested some canister and upright vacuums, generating an impressive 2,388 pascals of suction at the vacuum head. This translated to superior performance, capturing 96% of debris on low-pile carpets and achieving an almost perfect 99% pickup rate on hardwood floors. “I was able to work quickly, too,” remarked our lead tester, Rachael, noting how efficiently it cleaned on the first pass in the hardwood floor tests.
On hard surfaces, Dyson's Fluffy Optic head is particularly impressive, revealing hidden dust with its laser-guided precision. This feature makes it easy to spot and clean even the smallest particles, a game-changer for thorough cleaning. Additionally, the Gen5 resolves a common issue seen with the Dyson V15 by eliminating the fatiguing trigger pull, allowing for extended cleaning sessions without discomfort.
Here's a view of the green laser projected by the Gen5's hard surface roller.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Due to its great cleaning performance and convenience, we recommend the Gen5 for those who want to rely on a cordless vacuum to tackle larger messes in their house. Its immense suction makes it competitive with other vacuum types, such as canisters and uprights. The difference in percent collected is minimal compared to other top performers in this review. However, the freedom of going cordless allowed us to move effortlessly through the house, transforming a tedious, time-consuming chore into a quick and efficient task.
Among our cordless vacuum selection, we have three Dyson products that all performed similarly in our tests. The Dyson Gen5detect, V15 Detect, and V15s Submarine. All three models are incredibly powerful, outperforming the cordless stick competition, great at cleaning various surfaces, and offering excellent filtration. Even their vacuum heads are identical. The key difference is the Gen5's larger motor, which delivers stronger suction but also adds weight and requires more effort to push. It slightly improves debris pickup, but the marginal difference may not justify the bump in pricing. However, if you're someone who loves the freedom of a cordless option but doesn't want to make many compromises in cleaning performance, the Dyson Gen5 is the product for you.
In our most valued test metrics, the Levoit VortexIQ 40 performed exceptionally, nearly matching top competitors that cost two to four times more. Since cleaning performance is the top priority for vacuums, it's the perfect way to begin our testing—and this product impressed us right out of the gate. “This little guy is a slayer,” commented one of our testers after running multiple low pile carpet trials. The vacuum's head design, featuring 3 slots that seem to allow larger debris like Cheerios to pass while maintaining a partial seal for good suction retention, likely contributes to this performance. We measured the power of that suction at 622 pascals, which isn't bad for a budget model compared to the Shark Stratos that recorded a similar reading at 647 pascals but costs twice as much.
Again and again, we see this affordable option is great when compared to premium brands. On low-pile carpets, it matched the Dyson V8's results at 92% sucked up and even outperformed it by 10% on shag carpet tests. On hardwood floors, the Levoit achieved an impressive 88% debris collection despite lacking a soft roller. Maintenance is straightforward, with all parts easily accessible via buttons or tabs—no tools required, unlike some other models. Pushing the Levoit around, it feels on the heavier side, weighing 4.1 pounds, but it is smooth enough to push around and transition to different surfaces. Similar to the Kenmore Elite, the swivel joint leaves something to be desired since it tilts more than makes tight turns.
The Leviot is an affordable vacuum and performed great in our cleaning tests.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Levoit is designed for savvy shoppers who prioritize functionality over flashy features marketed by big brands today. It delivers reliable, straightforward performance to handle everyday cleaning tasks. Perfect for smaller homes that don't require frequent deep cleaning, this vacuum focuses on practicality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking simplicity and effectiveness.
Although the Levoit did great in sucking up sand, rice, and Cheerios, it struggled to remove pet fur and longer hair during our tests. We suspect this might be due to the simplistic roller bristles not providing enough agitation to dislodge the hair on its first pass during testing. Long hair also loves to cling to the roller as well. A tight budget alternative, Black+Decker Powerseries+ 20V, sucked up 78% on low pile versus the Levoit, which only managed 67%. The B+D can be a good alternative for those with animals and mainly low pile carpets. Lastly, we need to mention our gripe with its battery life. Even on the lowest setting, the runtime only amounted to 33 minutes. Need a deep clean? Shifting the power to high only gave us 8 minutes of clean time. That's simply not enough time to make a dent in a large home. And charge time isn't quick. We measured 3.8 hours till fully recharged. We often suggest buying an additional battery to help with this downfall, but this increases the total cost of an option we rely on to stay affordable. By ditching the cord, compared to other models, we have newfound freedom, allowing us to make quick work of our cleaning around the house. We could segment our house, cleaning cleaning, or living in a small townhouse or apartment; this may not be a worry. With any budget model, there are compromises you may have to make, but knowing that its best performances are where it counts the most, we believe this will be a great vacuum for those looking to save money.
The Shark Stratos is a premier upright vacuums thanks to its exceptional cleaning performance, effortless maneuverability, and convenient lift-away feature. Just like the cordless stick version, the DuoClean technology equips the Stratos with a dual brush roll system that effectively eliminates dirt and debris from various surfaces. No matter the type of flooring, we relied on this machine to tackle our biggest messes. It shines on hardwood, only needing a single pass in many of our debris tests, meaning we could work more efficiently around the house and get our chores done quicker. It also boasts a 98% pickup rate on low pile carpets. More finicky materials like Cheerios were no match for the Stratos, and it took just a few passes to eliminate rice and sand completely. This is also a fantastic product for pet owners who need a vacuum capable of removing fur from carpets. During testing, this vacuum sucked up 94% after just one back-and-forth motion. We also grew to depend on the motorized attachment to help clean couches and other upholstery.
Sharks are known for user-friendly designs that help out their owners, and the Stratos upright isn't without a nifty feature or two. Our favorite is the lift-away, designed to give us the freedom to remove the canister from the vacuum hose. It enhances usability, enabling easy cleaning on stairs, accessing tight spaces under furniture, and reaching challenging spots above. It gives an upright versatility, which is a pleasing aspect we don't usually experience with this type of vacuum.
With the Shark Stratos, you can lift the canister away from the vacuum hose to access under furniture easily.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
This vacuum is our reliable cleaning workhorse. Its large bin capacity (1.4 liters) makes it best for full cleaning missions, allowing us to clean more areas before emptying the bin. Its impressive performance on multiple surfaces makes it a versatile vacuum for most areas of the house. However, at 18 pounds, it is heavy, so you won't want to travel far with it.
After rigorous side-by-side comparisons, our testing team discovered only a few minor downsides to the Stratos. Most notably, a reduction in weight and some slight improvements in cleaning along baseboards could be beneficial. It doesn't do its best work when pushing it head-on into the wall, leaving a thin layer of rice grains at the end of our edge testing. It also tends to plow when pulling back material, but this is only a minor consideration when you start your cleaning routine. We also tested the Shark Vertex that looks and performs very similar to the Stratos. We would recommend either of these products, so be sure to check the price tag at the time of purchase to get the best deal for exceptional performance.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional provides a great cleaning performance at a price point we can appreciate. It does well sucking up material like rice and oats in just two passes on hardwood but is especially skilled at handling carpets, where it scores third in our tests, just behind the full-size winners, the Shark Stratos and Vertex. It boasts a thoughtful design, too, with Shark's signature lift-away feature that really works to capture those nooks and crannies.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional has especially made a name for valiant performance on the carpet. It did okay with shag but really stood out for its ability to tackle low-pile carpet, removing sand, rice, and Cheerios in just a couple of passes. It also showed an improved edge cleaning ability, lifting grains away from the wall when directed head-on. This vacuum is designed to handle homes with challenging corners.
The Navigator is easy to clean and maintain to help the longevity of this product.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
This vacuum caters to budget-conscious consumers without compromising on quality features. It is especially worthy of the carpets in a home, but it does well enough on shag and hardwood to handle the rest of the house, too. The Navigator is a simplistic, mid-size model that can provide thorough cleaning sessions around small to medium-sized houses.
There are a few drawbacks. The Professional did not have the best maneuverability, making vacuuming feel like a bit of a chore. Testers found it difficult to push forward, especially on fluffier carpet. It also underwhelmed on hardwood, failing to suck up flour, especially from cracks. If you want to save a couple of bucks, there is also the original Shark Navigator Lift-Away that offers slightly improved maneuverability. In our tests, it rated almost the same as the Pro and Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra.
The Roborock Q5 strikes a nearly perfect balance between price and performance while packing in some pretty advanced features. We have it rated right at the top of our robot vacuum review for its all-around great performance and versatility, tackling fluffy carpets as well as handling low-pile carpets.
Beyond the obvious convenience a robot vacuum provides over its more traditional counterparts, this model is all about advanced navigation. Connect and command your robot butler through a mobile app, where you can find options for setting no-go zones, schedules, and suction power. The Q5 will automatically create a virtual 3D map of your home, broken out by room, and can even save multiple stories. It's not the absolute smartest robot we've tested, but it seamlessly navigates around our entire workspace while daintily dancing around furniture, walls, or anyone walking through the space.
The Q5 does great at cleaning hallways and moving around furniture.
Credit: Jessica Riconscente
Robot vacuums are a serious time saver for anyone who wants a clean home with minimal effort. Set the unit up on its dock, send it on its way, and relax. Though you'll want to keep the floor relatively tidy (free of cords, socks, and things like that) before running, the Q5 and others like it will handle all sorts of debris effortlessly, and on most flooring types, too. These vacuums are here to keep the chaos of debris at bay for busy households.
We should mention that the Roborock Q5's major limitation is its low clearance, making it less effective in picking up larger debris or navigating onto thicker rugs from hardwood. It also faces challenges when dealing with particularly fine powder-like messes, such as flour. It does effectively handle hair, but we noticed it did tend to clog the main roller faster than average. While we love the Q5, if you're open to a more elite (and pricey) option, the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra surpasses most robot cleaners in the object recognition department - this one will avoid anything you miss… like an untimely pet accident.
The Wyze Robot Vacuum is another favorite of ours, showing similar performance scores at a significant discount from the Q5. It's a solid vacuum first and foremost, returning scores above average for carpet cleaning and among the best of our whole tested lineup at cleaning hard surfaces. For a budget option, that's all you can really ask for.
The Wyze is gentle on furniture while deftly maneuvering your home, and one thing we particularly like, after noticing suspect coverage in many other models, is that it has excellent coverage of space. There are no missed spots here, though it did have some trouble with effectively whisking dust and dirt from edges and corners, which is not uncommon for this category.
Robot vacuums are all about convenience, so it's nice to know that the Wyze has a very intuitive app that maps out your entire house at a glance.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ultimately, the Wyze is perfect for consumers looking to get their first robot vacuum to take over some of the cleaning load and see how much easier it can make life. No doubt, it gives respectable performance day after day without breaking the bank.
But to be fair, like the Q5, you're not going to get all the features here that are seen on models 4-5x the price. Things like advanced object recognition to limit the amount of pre-pickup needed and a tower dock for automatic bin empties. These features and others like it are great to have, but in the end they amount to slightly more convenience than a robot vacuum inherently gives in the first place. One model you may consider is the Shark Matrix Plus which has a tower dock (but no object recognition), and even has a vibrating mop addition.
Our top-performing canister vacuum is the Miele Classic C1 Pure Suction Powerline. This vacuum boasts a serious amount of suction power. We even pascals generated. With that in mind, it did well throughout our series of tests, specifically on hardwood floor. After we simulated a mess on the floor, we were able to clean up 99.5% of it with the Miele. Likewise, sand lodged in our bamboo slot crevice had no chance. The Classic C1 also did well on low-pile carpet, cleaning up 90.8% of the mess we created. This vacuum was easy to use and maneuver around tight corners. When moving between floor types, we were able to glide on and off with no trouble. Plus, we didn't have to switch out the brush head. We were happy with how lightweight the machine is at 13.1 pounds, and we think this machine is a great companion while headed up and down the stairs.
As with most canister vacuums, the Miele C1 struggled to completely clean high-pile carpet. Larger debris like Cheerios were easier to grab, but the rice and sand were not easy to grab. With more time, we believe we could get more of the debris, though. The only canister vacuum to tackle high-pile carpet with ease was theKenmore Elite Pet Friendly, and even then, it left plenty behind. The Miele C1 also doesn't have internal storage for its attachments. Intead, they rest in a holster attached to the tube. We prefer the internal storage as we feel less likely to lose the components. Most canister vacuums use disposable bags. So, keep in mind you will need to switch this out with time. The machine has a handy indicator light to let you know when it is time, but it is an extra step many other vacuums don't require.
The Black+Decker Flex Vac does a lot for a handheld vacuum, and that's because it's a lot like a miniature canister vacuum. This model was a top performer in our handheld vacuum review. In our tests, the Flex Vac did well sucking up animal hair and large debris, such as Mini-Wheats cereal, without clogging.
The machine has an accordion hose for long reaches, multiple attachments for those hard-to-access places, and high airflow through its one and 3/16-inch hose end. Moreover, the little vacuum did a great job cleaning deep cracks and crevices (easily reaching 36" into a 3" gap), and it did above average in cleaning dusty surfaces with a brush attachment.
We make a ton of messes and test each vacuum under the same conditions to get comparative results. This is a shot from our tough mud test.
Credit: Jessica Riconscente
If you have a home or business where you need a lot of reach, the Flex Vac is able to accommodate. It was efficient when picking up pet hair, making this a great model for pet owners, and it also tackled larger debris to provide greater versatility. However, a short battery life makes this a vacuum better suited to smaller spaces.
Despite its commendable overall performance, the Flex Vac exhibits certain limitations. Most notably, it generated a noise level that can be disruptive to conversations. Furthermore, it faced challenges when dealing with heavy, caked-on dirt, such as what you might encounter on a car's floorboard, though it can eventually manage the task with persistence. If the Flex Vac is a little above your budget, a great alternative is the Black+Decker Dustbuster. This handheld vacuum may not be the same quality, but it does most cleaning tasks sufficiently at a lower price point.
The Black+Decker Dustbuster's performance is a mixed bag with some real bright spots, including a great price point and high suction power to suck up big messes. It is a middle-of-the-road handheld vacuum that prioritizes value, costing less than $75 and still delivering a reliable performance.
Its design is particularly notable. The narrow nozzle with the built-in extension made it effective at getting to those hard-to-reach places without needing multiple attachments. Similarly, the rotating nozzle feature is a boon for maintaining a good grip on the handle when probing between couch cushions and the like. If you are looking for a vacuum to tackle the crumbs on your couch, this vacuum does the job. The fold-down brush does well for vacuuming baseboards, though you must be mindful not to scratch the wall with the plastic backing. It is extremely lightweight at just 2.4 pounds, and its battery life lasts almost 16 minutes.
We vacuum up flour on a black backing to get a better visual performance of each handheld's dusting capabilities.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
If you are looking for a portable vacuum that is easy to tote between floors, the Black+Decker will make the journey much easier. It is extremely lightweight at just 2.4 pounds, weighing far less than other vacuums like the Shark Stratos, which weigh almost 17 pounds. Maintenance is made easy by an easy-to-empty debris receptacle, making this great for homeowners who don't want to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
Just keep in mind that the Dustbuster has its limitations. It didn't perform well in tests involving pet hair pickup, and it struggled with fine debris like flour. Its effectiveness on high-pile carpets was also somewhat limited. Pet owners may want to look elsewhere because this model wasn't great with pet hair. Furthermore, this unit generated a notable amount of noise, surpassing the noise levels of other models in its category. Those who want a more elevated handheld vacuum experience would be better off checking our Black+Decker Flex Vac BDH2020FL review.
It is conveniently streamlined and also packs a powerful electric motor that will bust the toughest messes, be they sopping wet or dry as a bone. Soaked carpets? Heavy nuts and bolts? Piles of sawdust? It will suck all that up without a fuss and, with its HEPA filter, will blow cleaner air out the tail-end. When your work is done, the M18 has a slick, toolbox-like design that accommodates all the attachments with an added self-retracting hose for greater convenience. Another thoughtful feature is the hose routing that runs straight into the can; it is a far more beneficial design than the easily clogged elbow that other vacuums use.
We measured reach for every attachment housed by wet-dry vacuums.
Credit: Laura Casner
If you have a home that is primarily carpet, you may want to consider the M18. Given its strong performance on both wet and dry carpet, this model is especially recommended for homes and businesses that regularly face large messes. It is also good for those on a budget, bearing a price tag under $150.
Despite being a great vacuum, the M18 is not without its limitations. It struggled when it came to suctioning standing water on a hard surface. This is more due to a suboptimal floor attachment design rather than inadequate suction or airflow. Another drawback is its runtime, which fell below average for its category at four minutes and 39 seconds per amp hour. Furthermore, its 10-pound weight positions it on the heavier end of its category. Nonetheless, its hose extends from 24 to 90 ½ inches, reducing the need for frequent repositioning. However, if you want to compare against another comparable model, the Kobalt KWDV 0124B-03 is another affordable option. This budget-friendly vacuum excels in efficiently managing messes, with a straightforward design that simplifies both its use and storage.
High-pile carpet is notoriously difficult for canister vacuums, but not for the Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly. This canister eats up larger debris thanks to its PowerMate spinning brush head. Spinning brush heads like this one are becoming more and more common in higher-end canister vacuums, but it still isn't the norm to include them. On carpet, this spinning brush head gently glides the vacuum forward, lightly tugging on the canister to follow. That said, it was very easy to move around with the Kenmore Elite, especially as we moved from surface to surface. It was one of the few with an adjustable height, which effectively raises or lowers the vacuum head based on the height of the carpet. Plus, this can be controlled by your foot - no need to bend over to change it. While we were impressed with how well it cleaned carpet, its excellent hardwood performance is also worth a mention. After spreading a mess of Cheerios, sand, and rice on our floor, we were able to pick up 99.3% of it with the Kenmore. When testing filtration, we were pleasantly surprised by the performance of the triple HEPA system. Very few particles made their way out of the vacuum, meaning most were trapped inside the canister.
Caring for the Kenmore Elite is straightforward and simple. The HEPA filter and disposable bags need to be replaced occasionally. However, this can be more expensive and time-consuming than other vacuum styles. The full system is on the heavier side at 23.3 pounds. We didn't think this was much of a problem as the vacuum somewhat propels itself. However, if you have stairs you need to walk up and down, it isn't as mobile as the Eureka Mighty Mite. The PowerMate head is much like a traditional upright vacuum head, so it isn't as capable of tackling tight places like under furniture. The Miele Complete C3 Calima PowerLine includes a spinning brush head that is much lower in profile. And while the name of the Kenmore Elite suggests it'll handle pet hair, that wasn't the case for us. With longer hair, the rolling brush would get overwhelmed and clogged. All things considered, we were impressed with how well it cleaned carpeted flooring, especially when no pet hair was involved.
The Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly did well in our tests overall, specifically in its ability to tackle carpets and maneuver around seamlessly.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How We Test the Best Vacuum Cleaners
In the past decade, we've tested over 140 different vacuums here at GearLab. Our Best-In-Class reviews span six different styles of vacuums, all with the goal of providing the most comprehensive guide online to buying any vacuum. This latest update highlights the top 12 vacuums currently available, each carefully chosen to meet a specific need or purpose. To evaluate each vacuum cleaner's performance, we use a systematic process to measure cleaning performance, usability, and overall quality. We standardize our process, using the same carpets, measuring the same amount of material, and going at the same rate for each category of vacuum so that we have data that we can use to compare each product to the other.
We tally as many as 25 individual tests for each product we test in vacuum categories.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Beyond vacuuming carpets and hard surfaces, we break out our meters, measuring suction power, noise level, battery life, and even filtration capabilities. These lab measurements, combined with our hands-on testing, help give the full picture of these machines' capabilities. We go to great lengths to repeat the same process over and over again, all in the name of testing. We've grown to love testing these products because we've had such an extensive relationship working with them.
After months of experimentation, we are excited to reveal our newly developed filtration test. Testing a vacuum's filtration system is crucial because it directly impacts indoor air quality and health. This is especially important for individuals with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, as poor filtration can exacerbate their symptoms. To measure the effectiveness of vacuums in trapping dust, allergens, and other fine particles, we invested in two laser particle counters to monitor air emissions.
We measure both small and large particle sizes to find how well the vacuum can encapsulate pollutants.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
We start by developing a baseline in our testing room to establish a standard minimum we ensure for our testing conditions so that it does not affect our testing. We then measure out and place a 1/3 cup of flour in a line down on the carpet. We vacuum for 30 seconds while the particle readers record any escaping pollutants suspended in the air. Multiple trials are conducted, maintaining a consistent baseline between tests to account for any outliers and ensure accurate results. The numbers you see in the canister and upright reviews are the average of our filtration trials. We are incorporating these test procedures into all our reviews, so stay tuned for the data with other vacuum types.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Why You Should Trust Us
Senior Review Analyst Austin Palmer has been at the forefront of vacuum testing from our humble beginnings nearly a decade ago. He is our most experienced tester at GearLab, having tested more than 100 categories since his induction into the testing team. Over the years, he has developed technical expertise with a thorough understanding of real-world user needs. His analytic skill set is crucial for identifying potential flaws and assessing performance under various conditions.
Review Analyst, Rachael Lamore is the mastermind behind our new testing protocols. She has been working hard to provide numbers to all our testing to give a clean comparison of performances. Her technical background working in laboratories helped garner a systematic approach to our testing in our in-house facility. Her strong attention to detail ensures each and every product is held to the same standard.
There's lots to consider when choosing a vacuum. Lucky for you, we have done the testing to find out which are the best.
Some of the top-rated robot vacuums are ready to run a gauntlet of challenges.
Vacuums come in all different shapes and sizes, specifically designed to address specific cleaning tasks or cater to unique household needs.
How to Choose a Vacuum Cleaner
Choosing the right vacuum cleaner can make a world of difference in maintaining a clean and healthy home, but with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one suits your needs. From powerful uprights and portable handhelds to lightweight sticks and convenient robots, each type has its strengths and limitations. Factors such as floor type, household size, and personal preferences play a crucial role in determining the best choice. This guide breaks down key considerations to navigate features, performance, and value, ensuring the right vacuum is selected to fit any home and lifestyle perfectly.
Take account of the flooring in your house or apartment, as not every vacuum can tackle them all.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Flooring
Your floor makeup is one of the most important considerations when selecting a vacuum, as different surfaces require different features for optimal cleaning performance. For homes with mostly carpets or area rugs, look for a vacuum that has strong suction power, adjustable height settings, and a motorized brush head. The bristles at the brush head help to agitate the fibers of the carpet while the suction lifts dirt, dust, and debris from deep within the fibers of the carpet. Vacuums with a rotating brush are particularly effective for higher pile carpets, but be sure they can turn off or adjust for specific heights to avoid damaging delicate fibers. We were surprised how only an inch difference in carpet height can drastically change the requirements for a thorough cleaning.
We test both low pile and high pile or shag carpets to give results for a wide range of possibilities.
What is pile height? The pile height of a carpet refers to the length of the fibers from the backing to the tip of the carpet. Low pile is typically around 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch. These carpets tend to be more durable and easier to clean since dirt sits on top rather than sinking deeply into the fibers. This is generally what is lined through rooms in a house. High piles, also known as shag carpets, have fibers longer than 3/4 inches. These carpets are comfy plush rugs that usually complement hardwood flooring. Lengthening the fibers trap more dirt deep within the carpet, where fine particles like to settle. The pile height influences not only the look and feel of the carpet but also its cleaning needs. Shorter pile carpets are generally easier to vacuum, while longer pile carpets may require vacuums with more powerful suction and agitation.
Shark Vertex's soft roller on the front of the head helps polish the ground as it works its way around hardwood floors.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Hardwood floors benefit from a vacuum with a soft, non-abrasive brush. This helps prevent scratching or damaging the surface while still sucking up messes around the house. A suction-only or reduced roller speed is also useful to avoid scattering debris. We saw this often in our testing. When a vacuum goes head-on into rice, the aggressive roller creates what we call “rice-mageddon” because it flings the grains in all directions.
Cleaning Performance Across Floor Types
Product
Low
High
Hardwood
Shark Stratos Upright
97
52
97
Miele Classic C1 Canister
91
54
100
Kenmore Intuition Upright
97
73
75
Dyson V15 Cordless
94
46
98
Levoit Vortex Cordless
92
54
88
Eureka WhirlWind Canister
76
57
90
Shark Detect Pro Cordless
75
40
97
Our reviews test each of these main surface considerations. From our results, high pile is the hardest hurdle for vacuums to clean. However, many homes may not have many rugs lining the house, so this may not be a consideration. In this case, the Shark Stratos upright vacuum did best in both low pile carpet and heartwood testing and can be the choice for a household that doesn't have long pile heights. In a house with mainly hardwood floors? The Shark Detect Pro could be a great solution. It's not the most powerful vacuum, but you don't need a ton of suction when it comes to hard surfaces. If you need a fighting chance to suck up dirt that lingers deep into thicker carpet, the Kenmore Intuition 3-in-1 upright is your best bet.
Suction Power
Suction power alone is the most influential factor that directly impacts how effectively the vacuum sucks up debris from surfaces, especially when considering carpets. Without adequate suction, a vacuum may leave behind dirt, bacteria, or allergens that can compromise the cleanliness of a home. Strong suction ensures that these contaminants are fully removed, supporting a healthier living environment for the entire household.
Suction Power Across Different Vacuum Types
Type
Output
Miele Classic C1
Canister
3957 pascals
Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra
Upright
2389 pascals
Dyson Gen5detect
Cordless Stick
2388 pascals
Dyson V15s Submarine
Cordless Stick
1916 pascals
Eureka Mighty Mite
Canister
1767 pascals
Levoit VortexIQ 40
Cordless Stick
622 pascals
Shark Stratos
Upright
547 pascals
Shark Vertex
Cordless Stick
323 pascals
Shark Navigator Lift Away Deluxe
Upright
124 pascals
The numbers might surprise you as cordless stick vacuums were once considered the weakest of the group, but today, with brewing competition among companies, these slender vacuums can provide just as much power as their conventional counterparts. From our measurements, it's not necessarily dependent on the type of vacuum but rather the brand. Premium brands like Miele and Dyson primary focus tend to be on building the most powerful vacuum on the market. The range among the line of test products is often wide, with the top stars having multiple thousand pascals of suction strength versus the budget options that can barely hit 200 pascals.
We constructed a new testing platform to measure the suction power for all vacuums. A differential pressure meter connected by a hose is positioned on the underside of a small hole in the middle of the platform. Measurement units are taken in inches of water that we've converted to pascals to compare vacuum results better.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Better suction can extend to many beneficial outcomes relating to efficiency, adaptability, and improved allergens and dust removal. However, we do caution that with power comes responsibility, and that responsibility entirely lands on the person pushing around the vacuum. Excessive suction can create too much resistance on carpets, especially high-pile or shag varieties. This can make the vacuum difficult to push and maneuver, leading to user fatigue and frustration. If this is a concern, look for vacuums with adjustable suction settings or height controls to counteract these forces.
Filtration System
Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens can accumulate on floors and furniture, exacerbating respiratory issues for allergy-prone individuals. A high-quality filtration system guarantees these particles are captured and sealed within the vacuum, improving air quality and reducing allergic reactions.
Suction Power Across Different Vacuum Types
Type
Small (2.5-0.5)
Large (>2.5)
Bissell Zing Bagless Canister
Canister
1,953
60
Black+Decker Powerseries+ Cordless Stick
Cordless Stick
1,542
617
Bissell CleanView Upright
Upright
1,521
163
iLife V3S Pro Robot
Robot
237
180
Shark AI Ultra Robot
Robot
67
45
Levoit VortexIQ Cordless Stick
Cordless Stick
30
10
Miele C3 Canister
Canister
26
15
Shark Stratos Upright
Upright
9
5
We log both small and large particle counts that are suspended in our testing room during the filtration test. Generally, the lower the number, the better. Broad trends show that budget options are often prone to leakages, causing a spike in particulate counts and raising concerns. However, the Levoit, our Best Budget option, kicks this pattern, recording the lowest particulate count in the cordless stick vacuum competition. To learn more information on our protocols and results, head to our Best-In-Class reviews.
Vacuum Types
Vacuum cleaners come in a variety of styles, each designed to address specific cleaning needs and preferences. Choosing the right type can significantly improve your cleaning experience, whether you're battling pet hair, maintaining delicate floors, or dealing with tight spaces.
Cordless Stick Vacuums
Stick vacuums are known for their lightweight and compact design, making them an excellent choice for quick cleanups. Cutting the cord provides freedom of movement without the hassle of tangled cords.
Cordless Stick Vacuum Key Metric Scores
Product
Carpet
Hardwood
Pet Hair
Filtration/Suction
Dyson Gen5detect
9.1
9.0
8.3
9.3
Dyson V15 Detect
9.2
8.8
8.0
9.1
Dyson V15s Submarine
9.0
9.0
7.7
8.5
Samsung Bespoke Jet
8.6
8.1
5.8
7.2
Shark Vertex Pro Lightweight
8.6
8.6
6.8
5.6
Tineco Pure ONE S11
8.6
7.2
6.5
7.3
Shark Stratos Cordless
7.1
8.7
7.0
6.2
Dyson V8
8.1
7.8
6.9
6.0
Levoit VortexIQ 40
8.7
7.7
5.7
6.1
Shark Pet Plus
8.2
7.9
5.8
4.4
Shark Detect Pro Cordless
5.5
7.8
4.4
5.3
Kenmore Elite CSV Max DS4095
4.6
6.2
5.9
3.5
Black+Decker Powerseries+ 20V
4.4
5.7
6.4
2.7
Bissell Cleanview XR
3.8
3.2
5.2
5.8
Homeika LED 8-in-1
4.1
5.2
2.6
4.4
Stick vacuums are particularly effective on hard floors and low-pile carpets, offering convenience for quick daily cleaning or spot removal. However, they tend to have smaller dustbin capacities, which means more frequent emptying, and their battery life may be limited, especially on higher-power settings.
Stick vacuums are our favorite at GearLab. Once you cut the cord, you won't want to go back.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Upright Vacuums
Upright vacuums are a popular choice for deep cleaning carpets, thanks to their powerful suction, motorized brush rolls, and larger dust bins, making them highly effective for picking up dirt, debris, and pet hair. They are straightforward to operate, often featuring adjustable height settings for different carpet pile heights, and are excellent for covering large areas efficiently.
Upright Vacuum Key Metric Scores
Product
Carpet
Ease of Use
Hardwood
Pet Hair
Shark Stratos
8.2
8.6
9.8
10.0
Shark Vertex
8.6
8.9
8.6
10.0
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional
8.0
7.6
7.0
9.6
Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra
7.9
7.9
5.4
10.0
Shark Navigator Lift Away
6.9
6.9
6.8
10.0
Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly 31150
6.7
8.1
6.0
9.1
Kenmore FeatherLite
6.3
6.2
4.3
9.4
Eureka PowerSpeed
4.5
6.0
3.8
9.6
Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet
2.9
4.7
3.8
9.9
Dirt Devil Endura Reach
3.0
4.2
3.0
9.0
Upright vacuums tend to be heavier and bulkier than other types of vacuums, which can make them less maneuverable, especially in tight spaces or on stairs. Additionally, their design may not be as versatile for cleaning above-floor areas like curtains or ceiling corners, though many models now include hose attachments to address this limitation. Despite these drawbacks, their strong performance on carpets and large dustbin capacity makes them a reliable choice for households with extensive carpeting or high cleaning demands.
Upright vacuums are there for the long hail. Since they don't rely on a battery, they can clean for as long as the big bin allows.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Robot Vacuums
Robot vacuums offer a high level of convenience and automation, making them an attractive option for busy households or those looking for a more hands-off cleaning experience. These vacuums can be programmed to clean on a schedule, allowing them to run automatically while you're away or busy with other tasks. Their compact size allows them to easily navigate under furniture and into tight spaces, and many models can be controlled via smartphone apps, offering the ability to start, stop, and monitor the vacuum remotely.
Robot Vacuum Key Metric Scores
Product
Navigation
Coverage
Carpet
Hardwood
Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra
10.0
7.9
8.5
7.1
Roborock Q5
7.8
8.2
7.2
6.8
Eufy RoboVac X8 Hybrid
7.0
7.9
6.3
7.5
Wyze Robot Vacuum
7.8
6.7
6.7
7.5
Shark Matrix Plus
7.6
6.3
6.8
6.9
Samsung Jet Bot AI+
6.6
7.2
5.0
7.6
iRobot Roomba j7+
6.6
5.9
7.4
5.3
iRobot Roomba s9+
4.6
7.1
6.6
5.5
iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO
4.6
6.4
4.6
5.0
Eufy RoboVac 11S
3.0
5.1
5.1
4.7
They are generally less powerful than traditional vacuums, which means they may struggle with deep cleaning or larger debris, particularly on thick carpets. The smaller dustbin capacity also requires more frequent emptying, and their reliance on sensors and programming means they can sometimes miss areas or get stuck on obstacles. Battery life can be limited, and while many models return to their charging stations automatically, they may require some manual intervention if they encounter obstacles. Despite these drawbacks, robotic vacuums are ideal for maintaining clean floors in between more thorough cleanings and are a great option for those seeking convenience and efficiency with minimal effort.
Robot vacuums are a great addition to the cleaning quiver, giving households added assistance in between cleaning sessions.
Credit: GearLab Staff
Canister Vacuums
Canister vacuums are similar to uprights, except the canister storing collected debris is trailered behind the vacuum head and handle. This means that the business end of the vacuum is lighter and arguably more maneuverable. Plus, the handle is much lighter to lift. So, if you find yourself vacuuming curtains or other high places, you won't need to lift the entire unit. It makes for a particularly efficient pick if you have lots of corners to navigate. We found it easier to use on stairs since the canister can be left on the ground or carried in one hand while the other is free to work the machine. Still, it can be harder to store in a closet or corner because the unit as a whole is bulkier.
Canister Vacuum Key Metric Scores
Product
Carpet
Hardwood
Ease of Use
Pet Hair
Miele Classic C1 Pure Suction Powerline
7.0
9.7
7.7
7.9
Eureka Mighty Mite
6.2
9.9
6.4
9.0
Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly Canister
7.9
9.3
7.8
6.2
Kenmore 600 Series Pet PowerMate
7.6
8.0
6.5
6.1
Miele Complete C3 Calima PowerLine
6.8
8.4
7.9
2.6
Koblenz Centauri
5.9
8.0
4.2
5.9
Eureka WhirlWind
4.7
5.9
6.5
6.1
Bissell Zing Bagless Canister
4.4
5.4
5.9
6.5
Look for a head design that is more similar to upright vacuums for easier maneuverability.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Handheld Vacuums
Handheld vacuums are incredibly convenient for quick, targeted cleaning tasks, especially for smaller messes or spot cleaning in tight spaces. Their compact and lightweight design makes them easy to use for cleaning furniture, upholstery, stairs, car interiors, and even pet hair on cushions.
Handheld Vacuum Key Metric Scores
Product
Dust/Dirt
Tough Messes
Crevice
Battery
BLACK+DECKER Flex Vac BDH2020FL
7.4
5.9
9.5
6
BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser
6.5
7.8
5.4
8
BLACK+DECKER HHVI320JR02
4.8
7.5
6.2
6
BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Pivot BDH2000PL
7.7
7.9
3.9
5
Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus
6.6
7.3
4.5
6
BISSELL AeroSlim
6.8
3.8
7
6
Wyze Handheld
4.4
5.5
8.5
5
BLACK+DECKER HHVI315JO42
7.4
6.3
4.1
5
Shark ION W1
4.5
4.4
6.8
4
BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L
1.5
7.3
6.2
4
The handheld ability of this vacuum makes it very versatile.
Credit: Laura Casner
Cordless Wet-Dry Vacuums
Cordless wet-dry vacuums are versatile and powerful, designed to handle a wide range of messes, from liquid spills to heavy-duty debris like sawdust and gravel. These vacuums are particularly useful in garages, workshops, basements, or areas where wet messes or large debris are common. Wet/dry vacuums are typically bulkier and heavier than other types of vacuums, which can make them more difficult to maneuver and store, especially in smaller spaces. They also tend to be louder, as they require powerful motors to handle both wet and dry messes. While they are highly effective in certain environments, they may not be ideal for everyday home cleaning tasks, especially on carpets or delicate surfaces. Additionally, the large capacity means they can be cumbersome to empty, and the wet tank requires thorough cleaning after each use to prevent mold and odor buildup. Despite these cons, wet/dry vacuums offer unmatched versatility and are essential for handling more demanding and specialized cleaning needs.
Cordless Wet-Dry Vacuum Metric Scores
Product
Dry
Wet
Battery Life
Convenience
Craftsman CMCV002B
7
7
8
6
Ryobi P3240
8
7
4
6
Milwaukee M18 0880-20
9
6
4
6
Kobalt KWDV 0124B-03
9
6
4
5
Makita XCV11Z
4
5
6
7
Ridgid WD0319
7
7
3
5
Bosch GAS18V-3
6
5
4
6
Dewalt DCV581H
4
4
8
5
The results of the wet carpet test: a clean floorboard mat and nearly 2 cups of dirty water.
Credit: Laura Casner
Conclusion
When it comes to buying vacuums, it's important to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, especially if your home features a variety of surfaces and cleaning needs. While some vacuums excel in specific tasks, such as deep carpet cleaning or quick daily sweeps, others are designed for specialized jobs like cleaning up wet messes or tackling pet hair. In many cases, having an arsenal of vacuums can be the most effective approach to staying fully equipped for any situation.
